Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has said he has no regrets over his actions while in office, as he continues to face a series of legal challenges following his recent release from custody.
Malami made the remarks in an interview conducted shortly after regaining his freedom, speaking in Hausa about his experience in detention and the ongoing case against him.
The former minister, alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, AbdulAziz Malami, is facing a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). All three have pleaded not guilty.
Following his arraignment, Malami was remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre before being re-arrested on 19 January by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after his release. He later alleged that, during his detention, he was denied access to family members and his legal team — claims that have further fuelled debate over the handling of the case.
On 27 February, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted Malami and his son bail in the sum of ₦200 million each over separate allegations linked to terrorism-related offences. Having now met the bail conditions, the former minister has been released pending trial.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Malami described the experience as part of “God’s will”, while maintaining his determination to challenge the allegations in court.
He also accused security agencies of violating his rights during the investigation, alleging that his homes and business premises were searched without prior notice. According to him, he was denied the constitutional right to be present during the searches, preventing him from monitoring the process or knowing what items were examined or taken.
Despite the mounting legal battles, Malami struck a defiant tone, insisting that he stands by his record in office and remains committed to defending himself. He said: “I have spent time in EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and with the DSS. I believe it is all God’s will and I accept it; but I will defend myself against the allegations. They violated my rights by searching my houses and business premises without notifying me. Constitutionally, I have the right to be present during such searches”.
He added: “I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister”, he added.
